Southern Africa Safari Splendour - September 2024 - Melanie Golin - Hostess Round Up

16 Excited Women met and made their way to Southern Africa a region brimming with vibrant cities, breathtaking landscapes, and exhilarating wildlife experiences. This journey took us through Johannesburg, Chobe National Park, Victoria Falls, Kapama Game Lodge, Cape Town, and Stellenbosch, offering a perfect blend of urban life, adventure, and relaxation.

Our first stop Johannesburg: The Gateway to Southern Africa

The largest city in South Africa. Known as the "City of Gold," Johannesburg is a bustling metropolis with a rich history and a thriving cultural scene.  We learned  about Soweto this Visit was a must as the group saw firsthand about the life in South Africa and the townships and  how the Apartheid system worked ,  it provided a deep insight into South Africa's struggle for freedom,. We rode the streets in tuk tuks and were provided with a delicious African lunch mieliepap and stew.

We flew to Kasane and made our way to Chobe National Park in Botswana, one of Africa's premier wildlife destinations. Chobe is renowned for its incredible elephant population, often seen grazing along the banks of the Chobe River. Home to a wide variety of animals, including lions, leopards, buffalo, and hippos. We were very lucky to see these Big 4, it was exciting and exhilarating not to forget our daily African massage in the jeeps.

A sunset river cruise on the Chobe River offered us an unforgettable experience watching herds of elephants and crocodiles basking in the sun, and flocks of birds silhouetted against the African sky. .

 We crossed the border into Victoria Falls: The Smoke That Thunders

Just a short distance from Chobe one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Straddling the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls, or "Mosi-oa-Tunya" (The Smoke That Thunders), is an awe-inspiring sight. The sheer power and majesty of the falls left us spellbound, with mist rising high into the air, as we could not get enough we did a Helicopter flip over Victoria Falls what an incredible sight .

We then cruised on the Zambezi River and were treated to wonderful drinks and snack food .Witnessed a beautiful sunset, and saw elephant’s birds and hippos a thrilling way to end our day.

We learned all about village life and how they live with no running water or electricity a fascinating way of life, also experienced a home cooked lunch with wonderful food and hospitality.

After exploring   Gods Window and Bourkes Potholes we made our way to Kapama Game Lodge: Luxury in the African Wilderness

Located in the Greater Kruger National Park region. Kapama offers a luxurious safari experience while immersing guests in the heart of the African wilderness. The lodge is known for its beautifully designed accommodations, personalized service, and exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities.

We were treated to Twice-daily game drives with skilled rangers who provided an intimate look at the rich biodiversity of the area. We were blessed to see the big 5 Buffalos lions, leopards, rhinos, and elephants, and a variety of others Zebra’s Giraffe’s and Monkey’s. Incredible food and hospitality was on offer at this game lodge.

Our journey continued to Cape Town: Where Oceans and Mountains Meet

Leaving the wild behind, our next stop was Cape Town, one of the world’s most beautiful cities. Nestled between the iconic Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean,

We did a cable car up to Table Mountain for panoramic views of the city and coastline. We drove down the stunning Cape Peninsula, home to the famous Cape Point and the adorable penguins of Boulders Beach.  We explored Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years, and we stayed near the lively V&A Waterfront, filled with shops, restaurants, and art galleries. We dined in the greatest restaurants in Sea point and the City.

No trip would be complete without a Stellenbosch Tour to The Heart of South Africa’s Wine Country

Situated just outside Cape Town, Stellenbosch is known for its picturesque vineyards, historic Cape Dutch architecture, and world-class wines. We enjoyed our cheese and wine tasting and delicious lunch.  Stellenbosch offers quaint streets lined with galleries, museums, and boutique shops.

 Our Southern Africa tour offered us an unparalleled blend of urban vibrancy, wildlife adventures, and natural wonders. From the bustling streets of Johannesburg to the exhilarating Game Drives and then to the serene vineyards of Stellenbosch, we leave with lasting vivid memories of an incredible region rich in diversity, beauty, and culture. The Sisterhood group was amazing and everyone had an unbelievable tour.

Thanks,

Melanie